Regular oil changes are one of the most important things you can do to keep your car running well. Fresh oil helps your engine work properly and last longer. Let's go through everything you need to know about changing your oil.
Why Oil Changes Matter
Your car's engine has many metal parts that move against each other. Oil creates a slippery layer that:
- Stops parts from grinding together
- Helps remove heat
- Carries away dirt and metal particles
- Creates seals between moving parts
- Prevents rust and corrosion
Over time, oil gets dirty and breaks down. When this happens, it can't do its job well, which can damage your engine.
How Often to Change Your Oil
The engine oil change frequency depends on your car and how you drive. Most modern cars can go:
- 5,000-7,500 miles with conventional oil
- 7,500-15,000 miles with synthetic oil
Check your owner's manual for the recommendation for your specific car. You might need more frequent changes if you:
- Drive in stop-and-go traffic often
- Live in very hot or cold areas
- Take lots of short trips
- Drive in dusty conditions
- Tow heavy loads
FleetRabbit's app can help you track when you need an oil change based on your car model and driving habits. It sends reminders when you're due for service.
Choosing the Right Oil
Finding the best engine oil for your car is important. There are two main things to consider:
Oil Viscosity
Look for numbers like 5W-30 or 10W-40 on the oil container. These tell you how thick the oil is:
- The first number (with W) is how it flows in cold weather
- The second number is how it flows when hot
Always use the viscosity recommended in your car's manual.
Synthetic vs. Conventional Oil
There are important differences between synthetic vs. conventional oil:
Conventional Oil:
- Less expensive
- Good for normal driving
- Needs to be changed more often
- Made from crude oil
Synthetic Oil:
- More expensive
- Better in extreme temperatures
- Lasts longer between changes
- Better protection for your engine
- Specially engineered for performance
If your car is newer, has a turbocharger, or you drive in extreme temperatures, synthetic oil is usually worth the extra cost.
FleetRabbit can help you keep track of which type of oil works best for your car and when you need to change it.
How to Change Your Oil
If you want to change your own oil, here's what you'll need:
Tools and Materials
- New oil (check your manual for type and amount)
- New oil filter
- Oil filter wrench
- Wrench for the drain plug
- Oil drain pan
- Funnel
- Jack and jack stands or ramps
- Wheel chocks
- Gloves
- Rags or paper towels
Safety First
- Work on level ground
- Make sure the engine is warm but not hot
- Secure the car properly on jack stands or ramps
- Use wheel chocks to prevent rolling
- Never rely only on a jack to hold the car up
Steps to Change Your Oil
-
Prepare your car
- Run the engine for a few minutes to warm the oil
- Turn off the engine and secure the car on jack stands or ramps
- Put wheel chocks behind the rear tires
-
Drain the old oil
- Find the drain plug under the oil pan
- Put your drain pan underneath
- Remove the drain plug and let the oil drain completely
- Put the drain plug back and tighten it properly
-
Replace the oil filter
- Locate the oil filter (usually on the side or bottom of the engine)
- Put the drain pan under it
- Remove the old filter (use the filter wrench if needed)
- Put a thin layer of new oil on the gasket of the new filter
- Install the new filter by hand (usually 3/4 turn after the gasket touches)
-
Add new oil
- Remove the oil fill cap on top of the engine
- Use a funnel to add the recommended amount of oil
- Replace the oil fill cap
- Start the engine and let it run for a minute
- Turn off the engine and wait a few minutes
-
Check for leaks and oil level
- Look under the car for any leaks around the drain plug or filter
- Check the oil level using the dipstick
- Add more oil if needed
-
Clean up
- Take the old oil to a recycling center
- Keep a record of your oil change
You can use FleetRabbit to log your DIY oil changes, including photos of receipts for the oil and filter.
How to Check Oil Level
Knowing how to check oil level is important between oil changes. Here's how:
- Park on level ground and wait at least 10 minutes after turning off the engine
- Find the dipstick (usually has a colored handle)
- Pull it out and wipe it clean
- Put it back in fully
- Pull it out again and check the oil level against the marks (usually "Min/Max" or "L/H")
- Check the oil color - it should be light brown, not black and gritty
Check your oil at least once a month and before long trips. FleetRabbit can remind you when it's time to check.
DIY vs. Professional Oil Changes
You can change your oil yourself or have a professional do it.
DIY Benefits:
- Save money on labor
- Control what oil and filter are used
- Learn more about your car
- Satisfaction of doing it yourself
Professional Service Benefits:
- No mess or hassle
- Mechanics might spot other issues
- Often includes a basic inspection
- Can be affordable with coupons
Choose what works best for you based on your time, space, tools, and comfort level.
Warning Signs You Need an Oil Change
Don't wait for these signs, but if you notice them, change your oil right away:
- Oil pressure warning light on dashboard
- Engine running louder than normal
- Dark, dirty oil on the dipstick
- Burning oil smell
- Engine temperature higher than normal
Keeping Track of Oil Changes
Keep records of each oil change:
- Date and mileage
- Oil type and brand
- Filter brand
- Who did the service
FleetRabbit makes this easy by helping you track all your maintenance history in one place.
Conclusion
Understanding how to change engine oil, knowing the right engine oil change frequency, picking the best engine oil for your car, learning how to check oil level, and understanding synthetic vs. conventional oil are all important for taking care of your car.
Regular oil changes are one of the simplest and most effective ways to make your engine last longer and avoid expensive repairs.
FleetRabbit's maintenance app can help you stay on top of oil changes with personalized schedules, reminders, and a complete service history. Visit FleetRabbit.com to learn more about how their digital platform can make car maintenance easier.
Sign up into your Fleet Rabbit app today
Stay ahead with your fleet management
Web Portal
June 24, 2025By Fleet Rabbit
All Blogs
